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In Canada, the right to physician-assisted death has been a legal option for ten years, with over 76,000 individuals choosing this path between 2016 and 2024, according to data from The Globe and Mail. The federal government has progressively broadened the criteria for Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID), initially allowing only those facing imminent death to now include individuals living with incurable conditions where their quality of life has become unbearable. As of next year, the law will further extend to encompass those whose only qualifying condition is mental illness, pending any potential delays from Ottawa.
While the legislation has sparked debates, the real stories behind MAID reveal a deeply personal aspect. The Globe and Mail has gathered poignant accounts from individuals who opted for assisted death, as well as reflections from their loved ones who either supported or questioned these choices.
Voices of Those Who Chose MAID
Tom Campbell: A Life Well-Lived
Tom Campbell, who chose MAID on September 3, 2017, after a prolonged battle with bladder cancer, viewed the ability to decide the manner of one’s death as a fundamental right. With a distinguished career as Ontario’s deputy minister of health in the 1980s, Campbell was known for his warmth and kindness. His partner, Mary Mogford, recalls their 41 years together, describing him as a truly remarkable individual who was a strong advocate for the MAID law.
Mr. Campbell’s obituary reflected his beliefs, portraying MAID as a “wonderfully humanitarian addition” to the health system. As he faced the painful progression of his illness, he prepared for MAID in the comfort of his home, surrounded by loved ones. On his final morning, he dressed carefully, wishing to embrace dignity until the end. When the procedure was administered, he expressed readiness, stating, “At last.” His family shared a moment of profound connection, affirming that if death could be beautiful, it indeed was.
Audrey Parker: Seizing Control
Audrey Parker made the choice for MAID on November 1, 2018, after being diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer that metastasised to her brain. The vibrant 57-year-old wanted to assert control over her final moments. In her last month, Parker gathered her friends for meaningful conversations, providing advice and sharing laughter.
On her final day, she curated a lavish breakfast, ensuring to envelop herself in beauty and comfort. Surrounded by friends, she received the procedure with a calm smile, closing her eyes as she embraced the moment. Her passing inspired her friend Kim King to advocate for reforms that would allow terminally ill patients to waive the need for last-minute consent, now known as “Audrey’s Amendment.” This change offers future patients greater peace of mind and autonomy.
Jean Truchon: A Fight for Equality
Jean Truchon, a man with cerebral palsy, passed away through MAID on April 7, 2020, following a landmark legal battle that challenged the restrictions of the 2016 law. After experiencing a significant decline in his health, Truchon fought alongside Nicole Gladu to change the narrative that only those facing imminent death were eligible for assisted death.
Their legal challenge led to a pivotal court ruling in 2019, which influenced the government’s subsequent legislation allowing access to MAID for individuals whose deaths were not deemed “reasonably foreseeable.” Tragically, as Truchon prepared for his passing, he reflected on the pandemic’s impact on his final moments, expressing a desire to leave his loved ones behind without prolonging their suffering.
Price Carter: A Legacy of Choice
Price Carter, a retired pilot, chose to end his life through MAID on June 20, 2025, after receiving a Stage 4 cancer diagnosis. Known for his vibrant personality and sense of adventure, Carter was at peace with his decision. His connection to the issue ran deep; his mother, Kay Carter, was a pivotal figure in the legal fight for MAID in Canada, having sought the procedure overseas before it was legalised.
In his final moments, Carter was surrounded by family, sharing laughter and love, demonstrating the beauty of choosing how to face the end of life. His journey not only highlighted the personal aspect of MAID but also the ongoing legacy of advocacy for the right to die with dignity.
Kiano Vafaeian: A Tragic Case of Mental Health
Kiano Vafaeian’s story starkly contrasts with the others, as he became eligible for MAID on December 30, 2025, due to struggles with mental health and chronic illness. His mother, Margaret Marsilla, expressed deep concern over her son’s eligibility, believing he should not have been able to access assisted death. His earlier attempts to secure MAID were met with resistance, but ultimately, a Vancouver doctor facilitated the procedure.
Vafaeian’s passing sparked significant debate about the adequacy of safeguards within the MAID system, particularly regarding those with mental health conditions. Marsilla’s grief fuels her campaign to raise awareness about potential reforms needed to protect vulnerable individuals from premature decisions.
Why it Matters
The stories of those who have chosen MAID reflect the complex interplay of personal autonomy, dignity, and the evolving landscape of end-of-life care in Canada. As the nation prepares to expand MAID to include individuals with mental health conditions, the necessity for robust safeguards becomes increasingly critical. These narratives not only humanize the statistics but also underscore the importance of compassionate dialogue surrounding the rights of individuals facing unbearable suffering. For many, the option of MAID represents a profound choice, one that demands respect, understanding, and careful consideration of the ethical implications involved.
